raster format

What is a .FLIF file?

FLIF (Free Lossless Image Format) was an experimental lossless format that beat PNG on compression, now superseded by FUIF/JPEG XL.

Full name
Free Lossless Image Format
Developed by
FLIF Community
Released
2015
Extension
.flif
MIME type
image/flif
Transparency
Varies

How to open a FLIF file

FLIF opens in a few specialist viewers and the reference decoder; convert to PNG for everyday compatibility.

What FLIF files are used for

Photos & web images

Share, post and embed pictures across sites and apps.

Editing & design

Work with the format in editors like Photoshop and GIMP.

Storage & archiving

Keep memories and assets in a widely-readable form.

Strengths & limitations

✔ Strengths✖ Limitations
Lossless — keeps full qualityNo transparency support
Excellent compatibilityLimited support — may need converting

Need more than a conversion?

Remove the background from FLIF images, upscale to 4K, or generate new visuals with SharkFoto AI.

Frequently asked questions

FLIF (Free Lossless Image Format) was an experimental lossless format that beat PNG on compression, now superseded by FUIF/JPEG XL.

FLIF opens in a few specialist viewers and the reference decoder; convert to PNG for everyday compatibility.

Yes — FLIF preserves full quality with no compression loss.

Use SharkFoto's free tools — upload your FLIF file and convert it to a more convenient format in seconds. It's free, processed securely and never stored.

No — FLIF doesn't store transparency; convert to PNG or WEBP if you need it.